Bose-Einstein Condensation

Bose–Einstein condensation embodies some of the most fascinating aspects of quantum mechanics. Predicted 100 years ago, its experimental realization in 1995 opened up unexpected directions in both fundamental and applied quantum physics. This chapter describes the main features of Bose–Einstein condensation, focusing on its experimental realization in ultracold atomic gases. We will present the theoretical description of the effect and the main laboratory techniques used to produce and probe ultracold quantum gases, discussing both milestone experiments and emerging research directions that the theoretical and experimental investigation of Bose–Einstein condensation has opened in the recent past.